[Updated: April 10, 2019 | Published: April 10, 2019]

Our community recently hosted representatives from the City of Dublin and SHARE, a local micro-transit service, to discuss Dublin’s new senior transit program — the Senior Circulator. Representatives provided key information about how the service will work, as well as insight into the city’s long-term vision for the program.

During the first half of 2019, this free shuttle service will help seniors from our community easily explore what Dublin has to offer, including Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams, Starbucks and the Dublin Branch of the Columbus Metropolitan Library. The City of Dublin will utilize data from this pilot program to inform future senior transportation decisions.

Below are several questions and answers about the program provided by SHARE:

Q: What days does the Senior Circulator run?

A: Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 10am – 2pm. Times may be expanded at a later date. The long-term goal is to move to a 24-hour in advance reservation system used by the senior centers to arrange travel.

Q: What destinations within Dublin does the Circulator go to?

A: The Senior Circulator has three different routes which all stop at the Dublin Community Recreation Center as the main transfer point. Route one stops at Avery Plaza; Route two and three stops in Historic Dublin; Route two stops in Bridge Street District and Dublin Plaza; Route three also stops at Tuttle Mall (destinations may be expanded at a later date). To see the timetables for exact times, click here.

Q: Does it cost anything to ride?

A: During the pilot program from January through June, 2019, all rides are free.

Q: Do only seniors get to ride?

A: Caregivers and family members are welcome to ride. If the shuttle has room, any other person may ride.

Q: How do you define the age of a “senior”?
A: According to Dublin’s Aging in Place study, a senior is any person 55 and older.

Q: What is SHARE?

A: SHARE is a Columbus based micro-transit service created for the trips you take the most. They partner with employers, schools, senior living and healthcare facilities to provide a transportation solution backed by proprietary technology. SHARE believes access to transportation means access to opportunities. Some of their customers include Huntington Bank, Alliance Data, Worthington Industries, The Ohio State University, St. Vincent Family Center and National Church Residences.

Q: Are the shuttle drivers background checked?

A: Yes, all shuttle drivers receive an extensive training, a thorough background check, must be senior certified (CPR and courtesy trained) and all drivers are employees and receive weekly bonuses based on safety scores from the shuttle telematics.

Q: Can I ride more than one route?

A: Yes! All transfers occur at the Dublin Recreation Center. Please check timetables at the front desk or here.

Q: Does the Senior Circulator offer last mile connection for COTA riders?

A: Yes, the shuttle will stop at the Dale Drive COTA Park & Ride stop (#73) and at Tuttle (#72).

Are you looking for a community that lets you thrive in retirement? Friendship Village of Dublin offers a retirement experience that brings together social connection, enviable amenities and a full continuum of care through its Life Care options – all for a steady rate, regardless if needs or circumstances change as you age. If you’re interested in learning more about our community, schedule a visit.